South Korea Visa for Vietnam Citizens 2026 - Requirements, Fees & Processing
Complete South Korea K-ETA and tourist visa requirements, fees, processing times for Vietnamese citizens. Updated December 2026.
At a glance
Max stay: 30 days (validity: 3 years)
Overview
Planning a trip to South Korea as a Vietnamese citizen? Great news: Vietnam is included in the K-ETA exemption until December 2026, meaning you can enter visa-free for tourism. If needed, K-ETA costs only 10,000 KRW (approximately $8). This guide covers all your options for visiting South Korea from Vietnam.
Visa Application process
Complete the arrival card on the plane or at immigration
Present your passport at immigration
Provide accommodation address and contact information
Receive entry stamp for up to 30 days
Visit k-eta.go.kr
Create account and fill application
Upload passport photo
Pay 10,000 KRW (~$8)
Receive approval within 24-72 hours
Visa Fees breakdown
| Entry Method: Fee | Visa-Free (K-ETA Exemption): Free | K-ETA Application: KRW 10,000 (~200,000 VND) | The K-ETA exemption makes South Korea one of the most accessible destinations for Vietnamese tourists.1 |
|---|
What you need to prove
At South Korea immigration:
- Valid passport: At least 6 months validity
- Return intent: Confirmed departure ticket
- Accommodation: Where you will stay
- Financial means: Ability to support yourself (if asked)
Required documents
- Valid Passport
- Return Flight Ticket
- Accommodation Details
Valid Passport
Return Flight Ticket
Accommodation Details
Optional documents
Proof of Funds
Proof of Funds
Border entry information
If immigration denies your entry:
Most entry denials are easily preventable with proper preparation.1
If your application is denied
If immigration denies your entry:
Common reasons: No return ticket, passport issues, previous overstays
Prevention: Book return flight before arriving, check passport validity
Resolution: Address issues and try again on a future trip
Most entry denials are easily preventable with proper preparation.1
Comparison
| Entry Method | Fee | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Visa-Free (K-ETA Exemption) | Free | Valid until December 2026 |
| K-ETA Application | KRW 10,000 (~200,000 VND) | Optional, 3-year validity |
Common rejection reasons
| % | Reason |
|---|---|
| 30% | No Return Ticket |
| 25% | Invalid Passport |
| 20% | Insufficient Funds |
| 15% | Previous Immigration Violations |
| 10% | Unclear Travel Purpose |
30% - No Return Ticket
How to avoid: Book a return or onward flight before arriving. Immigration may deny entry without proof of departure.
25% - Invalid Passport
How to avoid: Check passport expiry and blank pages before traveling. Renew if needed.
20% - Insufficient Funds
How to avoid: Carry bank card, cash, or proof of funds. Be prepared to show if asked.
15% - Previous Immigration Violations
How to avoid: Resolve any outstanding issues. Previous overstays can result in entry ban.
10% - Unclear Travel Purpose
How to avoid: Have clear travel plans. Know where you're staying and what you plan to do.
Frequently asked questions
Do Vietnamese citizens need a visa for South Korea?
No, Vietnamese citizens can currently enter South Korea visa-free for tourism under the K-ETA exemption program until December 2026. You can stay up to 30 days.
What is K-ETA and do Vietnamese need it?
K-ETA is Korea Electronic Travel Authorization. Vietnamese citizens are currently exempt from K-ETA until December 2026. You can optionally apply for K-ETA for benefits like skipping the arrival card.
How much does K-ETA cost for Vietnamese citizens?
K-ETA costs 10,000 KRW (approximately $8 or 200,000 VND) if you choose to apply. With the current exemption, you can enter without K-ETA for free.
How long can Vietnamese stay in South Korea?
Vietnamese citizens can stay up to 30 days per visit under the visa-free arrangement. For longer stays, you need to apply for a visa at the Korean Embassy.
What documents do I need for South Korea from Vietnam?
For visa-free entry, you need: valid passport (6 months validity), return flight ticket, and accommodation address. Proof of funds is recommended.
How long does K-ETA processing take?
K-ETA is typically processed within 24 hours, but can take up to 72 hours. With the exemption, no processing is needed for Vietnamese citizens.
Can I extend my stay in South Korea?
Tourist stays may be extended by visiting a local immigration office before your 30 days expire. Extensions are granted at immigration's discretion.
What is the approval rate for South Korea entry from Vietnam?
The approval rate is approximately 95% for Vietnamese travelers with proper documentation. Most issues arise from missing return tickets or passport problems.
Sources
https://www.k-eta.go.kr/
https://www.immigration.go.kr/
https://english.visitkorea.or.kr/